MPP Lecce Announces Investment in the Vaughan International Film Festival

VAUGHAN — Today, MPP Stephen Lecce was joined by MPP Laura Smith to announce Ontario is investing $55,000 through the 2026 Experience Ontario program to support the Vaughan International Film Festival. This is part of a more than $20 million government investment to help municipalities and event organizers deliver high-quality programming and experiences for people of all ages.

“Supporting the Vaughan International Film Festival means supporting local jobs, attracting visitors from across the globe, and showcasing our incredible local talent,” said Stephen Lecce, MPP for King—Vaughan. “Under the leadership of Premier Ford, we are investing big in Vaughan by protecting our culture and heritage, upgrading public transit, investing in better healthcare, closer to home—strengthening our local economy and standing up for Canada.”

Since 2018, the Experience Ontario program (formerly known as Reconnect Ontario and Celebrate Ontario) has supported more than 2,700 Ontario festivals and events. The government also supports festivals and events through the Ontario Cultural Attractions Fund, which provides eligible organizations with funding for marketing and promotional costs.

“Ontario’s creative industries are a major driver of jobs, tourism, and economic growth, and organizations like the Vaughan International Film Festival play an important role in that success,” said Laura Smith, MPP for Thornhill. “This investment will help showcase the stories, talent, and creativity that makes our community so special, while creating opportunities for local creators and businesses alike. Our government is proud to support initiatives that celebrate the arts, attract visitors, and strengthen local economies across Ontario.”

Tourism plays a critical role in the Ontario economy: in 2024, visitors to Ontario spent $33 billion and supported more than 300,000 jobs.

“From Ontario’s charming small towns to its dazzling urban centres, festivals and events bring people together, create lasting memories and showcase the best of our communities,” said Stan Cho, Minister of Tourism, Culture and Gaming. “As we work to protect Ontario, these homegrown experiences play a vital role in celebrating our shared identity, bolstering main street businesses and ensuring our province remains a place people are inspired to explore — and proud to call home.”

In total, Experience Ontario 2026 is supporting nearly festivals and events of all sizes across the province, strengthening tourism and supporting local economies while celebrating the people, places and traditions that make Ontario unique.

MEDIA CONTACT                                                                                              

Stephen Lecce, MPP for King—Vaughan

Constituency Office

Tel.: 647-560-9700        

Email: Stephen.Lecce@pc.ola.org